plotlear King Lear Essays: Importance of the Parallel Plot in King Lear

Importance of the Parallel Plot in King Lear

Literature can be expressed using many different techniques and

styles of writing, some very effective and others not as much. One of the

methods chosen by many is the use of so called "parallel" plots.

"Parallel" plots, or sometimes referred to as minor, give the opportunity

of experiencing a secondary storyline going along with the main plot that

otherwise would be unmentioned. William Shakespeare shows excellent use of

a parallel plot in his play "King Lear", but some question it's

essentiality by asking: Is it really necessary? Does it help the story or

does it degrade it? Is the Gloucester's plot really needed? Many argue

that it is very important and others say it is completely useless. This

essay will try to prove that the parallel plot used in "King Lear" is

needed and it adds to overall value of the play.

Like any other kind of literature "King Lear" contains many themes;

one of which is the "parent-child relationship" conflict. Relationship

problems are very common, not only in novels but also in everyday life.

Lear starts the entire dilemma of hate and destruction by his foolish

desire for flattery. He divides his kingdom between two of his daughters

and the never ending crave for power and wealth begins. As we can assume

from the play's title, Lear and his daughters are part of the main plot.

The plot of Gloucester and his sons, is considered parallel.

Gloucester is portrayed also with family problems. He experiences

trouble with his two sons, Edgar and...

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...noring it would be negligent. It is a very

important part of "King Lear" and it serves a great purpose. If William

Shakespeare ignored the plot in the first place, his point would not be

passed through at the level it is passed on now. I am sure Shakespeare

knew it very well that Gloucester's character and actions help to

understand the play better and improve it. The answer to many who question

the parallel plot and it's presence is simple. The plot is necessary and

without it, the play would not reach the position at which it stands right

now. William Shakespeare was aware that by including the so called

parallel plot, he was increasing the value of his own work. Gloucester's

plot is one of the essential parts of the entire play. Removal or

ignorance of it will diminish the significance of the entire idea.